LASERC bans electricity companies from recovering bills older than 12 months
By Aboki Forex —
The Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC) has ordered that electricity distribution companies cannot recover unpaid bills that are more than 12 months old. The rule applies except in special cases like meter tampering, illegal consumption, or obstruction of meter reading.
LASERC said the restriction is part of the Lagos State Retail Electricity Supply Code, specifically Paragraph 35(1) and 35(2). The commission stated that the measure is designed to protect consumers from unlawful back-billing practices.
The regulator made the clarification in a consumer awareness message on its official social media platforms. It urged electricity users to know their rights under the state's electricity rules.
LASERC also reaffirmed that Lagos has no electricity subsidy policy. It plans to scrap the current electricity tariff band classification.
The advisory comes after many residents complained about being asked to pay electricity bills dating back several years. The commission said such historical charges cannot be enforced beyond 12 months unless there is proof of electricity theft or related violations.